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Chartplotters are OK, and have taken a big step of making gps technology more practical for nav. But there is far more that could be done in software that is being ignored. The actual computing elements in chartplotters cost peanuts, what you are paying for is screen features (size and resolution). And you "need" several different sensor units (depth/ nav/fish/ect) each with their own operating schemes screens and buttons, it really is a mess.
IMO a single inexpensive onboard computer could offer much more flexiblity then the hodge-podge of compeating equipment that clutters up the console now. Imagine the boat builder incorporating a single (upgradeable) computer in the boat, then you simply select the sensors you want. Everthing could be dispayed on one or two lage flat panel monitors.(engine/depth/nav/fish/communications/whatever). Upgrading is much more straight forward then replacing entire boxes.
Sure you still want a compass and an handheld gps for back-up but the potential for software driven features and ease of use and is impressive not to mentions the cost savings.
I think Nobeltec has the right idea with gps charting/tides currents/radar images overlaid but it could go much futher.
Last edited by Mr. Sandman; 01-03-2003 at 11:48 AM..
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